Is It Normal Aging or Dementia? 10 Signs Families Shouldn’t Ignore

Forgetting a name or misplacing your keys happens to everyone, especially as we get older. But when memory loss or changes in behavior begin interfering with everyday life, families may wonder: Is this normal aging, or could it be dementia or Alzheimer’s disease?

September is World Alzheimer’s Month, making it an important time for families to learn the early signs of dementia and know when it may be time to seek help.

What Is the Difference Between Normal Aging and Dementia?

Normal aging can include occasionally forgetting an appointment, taking longer to remember a name, or misplacing something and finding it later.

Dementia is different. It can cause changes in memory, thinking, judgment and behavior that begin affecting a person's ability to safely manage everyday life.

10 Early Signs of Dementia Families Should Watch For

Some changes that may deserve a conversation with a healthcare provider include:

1. Memory loss that disrupts daily life, such as repeatedly forgetting recently learned information.

2. Repeating the same questions or stories without realizing it.

3. Difficulty completing familiar tasks, like preparing a favorite meal or using household appliances.

4. Confusion about dates, time or familiar places.

5. Trouble managing medications, bills or finances.

6. Frequently losing items and being unable to retrace steps to find them.

7. Changes in judgment or decision-making.

8. Difficulty following or joining conversations.

9. Changes in mood, personality or behavior.

10. Withdrawing from activities, hobbies or social situations they previously enjoyed.

Having one of these signs does not automatically mean someone has Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia. Other health conditions can cause memory and cognitive changes, which is why discussing new or worsening symptoms with a healthcare professional is important.

When Should You Be Concerned About an Aging Parent?

A good question to ask is:

“Are these changes beginning to affect their everyday life or safety?”

If you're noticing missed medications, forgotten meals, difficulty with personal care, increased confusion, unsafe driving, wandering or other significant changes, it may be time to discuss both a medical evaluation and whether additional support at home could help.

Helping a Loved One With Dementia Stay Safe at Home

Many older adults want to remain in the comfort and familiarity of their own homes for as long as possible. As Alzheimer's or dementia progresses, additional support can help families manage changing needs.

Professional home care can provide assistance with daily routines, personal care, meal preparation, companionship and supervision while providing family caregivers with additional support.

BrightStar Care of North Shore Nassau County is here to help families understand their home care options and find the right level of support for their loved one.

If you're beginning to wonder whether Mom or Dad needs more help at home, you don't have to wait for a crisis to start the conversation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the first signs of dementia?
Early signs may include worsening memory loss, repeating questions, confusion, difficulty completing familiar tasks, poor judgment and changes in mood or behavior.

Is forgetfulness a normal part of aging?
Some occasional forgetfulness can occur with normal aging. Memory problems that repeatedly interfere with everyday activities should be discussed with a healthcare professional.

Can someone with dementia continue living at home?
Many people can remain at home, particularly in earlier stages, but the amount of assistance and supervision needed may increase as dementia progresses.

When should I consider home care for a parent with dementia?
Consider additional support when everyday activities, personal care, meals, medication routines, supervision or safety are becoming difficult to manage alone.